Protecting Your Heart – A Lifelong Commitment with Dr. Thandeka Mokoena
August 17, 2025
Index
Protecting Your Heart – A Lifelong Commitment with Dr. Thandeka Mokoena Specialist Cardiologist – University of Cape Town (UCT) & Royal College of Physicians, UK
From My Heart to Yours
As a cardiologist, I’ve seen both the triumph of recovery and the tragedy of late diagnosis. Every day, I meet patients whose lives have been changed forever by heart disease—sometimes in ways that could have been prevented. In South Africa, where healthcare access is uneven and many communities face limited resources, heart disease has quietly become one of our greatest public health challenges. What pains me most is knowing that so much of this suffering is preventable—if only awareness, early detection, and healthy living were given the attention they deserve.
The Silent Epidemic in South Africa
Recent reports from the South African Heart Association and World Health Organization (WHO) reveal alarming realities: Over 18% of deaths in South Africa are linked to cardiovascular disease.1 in 4 adults live with high blood pressure, many without knowing it.Heart-related illnesses affect people younger than ever before, especially between 35–55 years oldThese numbers aren’t just statistics—they represent fathers, mothers, colleagues, and friends whose lives are cut short or whose futures are altered forever.
Why Prevention Matters More Than Ever
The human heart is a remarkable organ—beating roughly 100,000 times a day, circulating oxygen-rich blood to every part of our body. But it’s also vulnerable to years of poor habits, untreated conditions, and environmental stressors. In South Africa, heart disease risk is compounded by: Diets high in processed foods and saltSedentary lifestyles due to urban work patternsHigh smoking and alcohol consumption ratesLimited access to affordable healthcareThe result? More people in their prime years facing heart attacks, strokes, and chronic heart failure.
Key Facts Everyone Should Know About Heart Health
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Known as the "silent killer" because symptoms often appear only when damage is advanced. Atherosclerosis – Plaque buildup in arteries can block blood flow, leading to heart attacks. Heart Failure – When the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Arrhythmias – Irregular heartbeats that can trigger strokes or sudden cardiac arrest. The good news? Each of these conditions can be detected early and managed—often with simple lifestyle changes and timely treatment.
My Heart Health Action Plan for South Africa
1. Annual Heart Screenings Blood pressure checks, cholesterol testing, and blood sugar monitoring should be as routine as dental checkups.For those with family histories of heart disease, early screening is even more critical.2. Nutrition Overhaul Replace refined carbs and sugary drinks with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.Limit salt intake to less than 5 grams per day—about one teaspoon.Choose lean proteins like fish, beans, and skinless poultry.3. Movement as Medicine Just 30 minutes of brisk walking five days a week reduces heart disease risk by up to 30%.Add strength training twice a week to maintain muscle and support metabolism.4. Stop Smoking – Today Smoking doubles the risk of heart attack.Within one year of quitting, your risk drops by half.5. Stress Management Chronic stress raises blood pressure and triggers unhealthy coping habits.Incorporate deep breathing, meditation, or community activities that bring joy.
The Role of Education and Public Awareness
We cannot address heart disease with medication alone—we must educate before we medicate. This means: Health talks in schools to instill good habits earlyWorkplace wellness programs to encourage regular exerciseCommunity health fairs offering free blood pressure and cholesterol checksPartnerships with local leaders to spread awareness in rural areas
Strengthening Our Healthcare System
While prevention is key, treatment and emergency care save lives too. I strongly advocate for: More funding for cardiac units in regional hospitalsMobile health clinics to serve remote areasTraining more general practitioners in basic cardiac screeningGovernment-subsidized heart medications for low-income patients
My Pledge as Your Cardiologist
I am committed to: Delivering clear, science-based advice you can trustListening to every patient’s concerns without rushingHelping you create a practical plan for your heart healthStanding alongside you—not just as your doctor, but as your health partnerHeart health is not a luxury—it is a right. And it begins with the choices we make every day. “A healthy heart powers a healthy life. Every step you take today is an investment in your tomorrow.” – Dr. Thandeka Mokoena Cardiology Department, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg